When buying, building, or selling a home in South Africa, many people focus on the obvious things – like finishes, fittings, or layout. But one critical area that often gets overlooked is compliance with the National Building Regulations, specifically SANS 10400.
What is SANS 10400?
SANS 10400 is a set of regulations that provides the application of the National Building Regulations (NBR) under the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act. It outlines the minimum standards for construction in South Africa, ensuring that all buildings are safe, healthy, and structurally sound.
It covers everything from:
- Foundations and structural walls
- Fire protection
- Ventilation and plumbing
- Electricity and energy usage
- Stormwater management
- Accessibility and occupancy classifications
Why Does This Matter to Property Buyers, Sellers, and Owners?
Non-compliance with SANS 10400 can lead to:
- Insurance claim rejections
- Municipal fines or legal orders to demolish non-compliant structures
- Delays in property transfers
- Health and safety risks to occupants
As a home inspector, I regularly find issues like unapproved additions, poor drainage, or unsafe electrical and plumbing installations – all of which may breach the SANS 10400 guidelines. This can happen even after a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) has been issued, which highlights the need for unbiased, independent inspections to identify overlooked or hidden problems.
A detailed home inspection helps you spot these issues early—before they become expensive or dangerous. Whether you’re investing, renovating, or selling, it’s worth ensuring your property meets the standards.
If you’re unsure about your property’s safety and compliance, let’s take a closer look.